The regaining of one-half of the Nephite lands was accomplished in two years, the sixty and sixty-first year of the judges (vv. 9–10). In Mormon’s abridgments he tells why the lands had been lost (vv. 11–13) and the reasons for their lands being regained (vv. 14–15). Both observations are important, the first as a warning to us and the latter was a preventive measure for prosperity.
The wickedness and abominations that caused the loss of their lands were the effects of pride. Pride was an effect of misuse of the riches with which they had been blessed (vv. 11–12). Five years of “great slaughter” could have otherwise been avoided; three years of being driven out, and two years of regaining the losses. However, all was not regained, only one-half. The following illustrates the cause and effect of following Satan. (There is no specific correlation between the lists.)
Cause
Effect on Society
Oppression of the poor
Murder and plunder
Smiting the humble
Lying and stealing
Mocking the sacred
Dissension and contention
Denying revelation and testimony
No strength from the Lord
Boast in own strength
Afflicted and smitten
The regaining of the lands and the prosperity that the Nephites experienced were obtained because of the preaching and prophesying of Moronihah, Nephi, and Lehi (vv. 14–16). Applying their situation to our day, we have a critical choice. Do we follow the prophets, or are we willing to reap the effects of following Satan? Collectively many people in our nation are following Satan. As with the Nephites, many who prefer to belong to the Church today are also lifted up in pride (v. 11). We must use our influence to help them repent and listen to the counsel and testimony of the prophets.